Howard McGhee

Howard McGhee, a pioneering figure in the bebop jazz scene, was one of the first American trumpeters to embrace and master this revolutionary style. Born in 1918, McGhee stood alongside legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Fats Navarro, known for his remarkable technical prowess, including lightning-fast fingering and the ability to hit impressively high notes. His influence on younger bebop trumpeters was significant, with Fats Navarro himself citing McGhee as an inspiration. McGhee's versatility allowed him to play with both speed and sweetness, from high to low registers, making him a standout in the bebop era. Despite his talent, McGhee's contributions are often overlooked, but his impact on jazz is undeniable. His discography, spanning from the mid-1940s to the 1950s, offers a rich exploration of bebop and hard bop, showcasing his unique voice and technical brilliance.